Neon Woven Leather Bracelet (With Elastic Fit & Rainbow Cord)

I’ve always loved neon colors. Ever since I was a child, I was fascinated by their bright, vibrant energy. Recently, I also discovered a passion for making leather goods, which opened up a whole new world of crafting for me.

This project combines those two things I love — neon color and leather — into a fun bracelet design that really stands out. The contrast between the natural leather and the bold neon creates a unique piece of jewelry that is simple to make but visually striking.

The goal of this project is not only to show you how to make this bracelet, but also to inspire you to experiment and create your own bold jewelry designs.

This Instructable is a bit detailed because I wanted to share the full process so beginners can follow along easily. If you enjoy working with leather or love bright, eye-catching designs, this project is definitely for you!

Supplies

1 m × 3 mm Rainbow Polyester Cord (colour optional)

Example rainbow cord: https://share.temu.com/DGBRFxf29QB⁠�

(Optional – many craft stores and online shops sell similar cord.)

15 cm × 3 mm Elastic Cord (colour optional)

2 × Eyelets

Cardboard or thick paper (for the pattern)

Leather clear topcoat or any leather sealer available to you

Tools

Belt hole punch

Ruler (metal or plastic)

Scissors

Awl

Eyelet crimping pliers

Small craft paintbrush

Pen

Lighter (for finishing cord ends)

If you work in inches, you can use this converter:

https://www.rapidtables.com/convert/length/cm-to-inch.html⁠�

Start by drawing a straight cross-section line on the cardboard. This will help keep the pattern aligned and accurate.

Draw a rectangle measuring 17 cm long × 2 cm wide.

This length is 2 cm shorter than the circumference of my wrist to allow space for the elastic cord that will be added later. The elastic creates a more comfortable fit.

Divide the 2 cm width into four 0.5 cm sections by drawing three parallel lines with a ruler and pen (see Image 03).

Next:

Leave 3 cm of space from each end for the eyelets.

From the 3 cm mark, measure and mark 12 sections of 1 cm each along the length of the bracelet.

Mark these points on the first line, then copy them across the other two lines.

This will give you 36 hole markings.

Measure 7 mm from each end of the bracelet and mark the center point on both sides. Its idicated by the dark black spots on Either ends.

These marks will be used for inserting the eyelets.

(Ask a parent for help if you are too young for this step.)

Cut out the cardboard pattern using scissors. Any scissors suitable for paper will work.

Place the pattern on the leather and trace it using a pen or awl.

Use an awl to mark the positions of all the holes on the leather.

This helps guide the punch and keeps the holes accurate.

(Ask a parent for help if you are too young for this step.)

Cut out the leather strap following the traced outline using scissors or any cutting method you prefer.

Using a belt hole punch:

Use the 3 mm punch to create the holes for the rainbow polyester cord.

Use the 5 mm punch to create the two holes at the ends where the eyelets will be installed.

Apply a leather topcoat or Leather sealer of your choice using a small craft paintbrush.

This protects the leather and gives the bracelet a more finished look.

Start weaving the rainbow polyester cord through the first hole.

Leave about 0.5 cm of cord at the start. Use a lighter and the wooden back of an awl or stick (not your fingers) to gently melt and flatten the cord end so it cannot pull through the hole.

Continue weaving:

Through all holes in the first row

Cross to the second row

Then weave through the third row

Pull the cord medium tight as you go.

At the final hole on the opposite end:

Cut the cord leaving about 0.5 cm

Melt and flatten the end again so it cannot pull back through the hole.

(Ask a parent for help if you are too young to use a lighter.)

Insert the eyelets into the 5 mm holes on each end of the bracelet.

Use eyelet crimping pliers to press them firmly into place.

Thread the 15 cm elastic cord through both eyelets.

Tie:

One knot on one end

A second knot adjusted to your preferred tightness for a comfortable fit on the other end.

Trim any excess elastic cord with scissors.

Use a lighter to gently seal the ends so they do not fray.

(Ask a parent for help if you are too young for this step.)

And that's it! Your neon woven leather bracelet is complete.

What I like most about this design is how customizable it is. You can experiment with different leather colors, cord colors, or even wider straps to create completely different looks.

If you enjoyed this project, try making another version with different color combinations or gift one to a friend. Handmade jewelry always makes a unique and personal gift.

Thank you for following along with this tutorial. If you found it helpful or inspiring, please consider favoriting the project or sharing your own version in the comments. I would love to see what you create!